Allen "Al" Burke
1933 -
Al Burke: A Legacy of Speed and Resilience
Al Burke, a name synonymous with Midwestern flat-track racing in the 1950s and early 1960s, left an indelible mark on the world of motorcycle racing. As a Harley-Davidson factory-supported rider from 1954 to 1963, Burke carved a niche for himself as a short-track racing specialist, becoming an eight-time Minnesota state champion and clinching numerous regional titles along the way. His journey through the world of motorcycles is not just one of triumph but also resilience, showcasing the spirit of a true champion.
Born in 1933 in Richfield, Minnesota, Burke’s passion for motorcycles ignited at a young age. He spent countless hours at Carlson Brothers BSA & Norton Sales, where he was allowed to learn the intricacies of motorcycle mechanics. During World War II, as the dealership saw less traffic, the owners encouraged Burke to hone his skills. “If you're going to hang around every day, you may as well learn something,” co-owner Eske Carlson told him. This mentorship set the stage for Burke’s lifelong love affair with motorcycles.
Burke’s first motorcycle ride is a story he recalls fondly. At just nine years old, he was tasked with riding a Harley 45 with an outrigger sidecar to the store on a day when freezing rain blanketed the roads. “I think I killed the engine three times on glare ice,” Burke laughs, “but I dumped the clutch and took off in a full broadslide out of the driveway. I’ve always said that I started out in a full slide and never quit.” This exhilarating introduction to riding marked the beginning of his racing journey.
As a teenager, Burke’s desire to race led him to practice tirelessly at an old gravel pit, mastering the art of controlling a bike in a full broadslide. By the time he entered local non-sanctioned races at 15, he was already a formidable competitor. His breakthrough came in 1954 when he won the Minnesota flat-track racing title on a BSA. Shortly after, he caught the attention of Harley-Davidson, leading to a life-changing invitation to tour the factory. There, he met racing legend Leo Anthony and was presented with a factory Harley-Davidson WR, launching him into the national racing scene.
Burke quickly became known as Harley-Davidson’s short-track and regional racing specialist. The factory even crafted a custom short-track racing frame specifically for him, enabling him to dominate the Upper Midwest racing circuit in the late 1950s. He recalls the hectic schedule: “I would drive to Milwaukee on a Tuesday, pick up my bike, race throughout the week, and drop it off on my way back to Minnesota.” In July 1956, Burke set an astonishing record of 37 wins in just one week, showcasing his incredible talent and tenacity.
While Burke was primarily known as a regional racer, he also competed in AMA Grand Nationals, achieving several top-10 finishes, including a career-best fifth in the half-mile at St. Paul in August 1957. His connection to the Sturgis Rally in South Dakota began in 1949, when he rode to the event on a Velocette, earning recognition as the youngest rider attending on his own bike. He later returned as a racer, winning the prestigious Black Hills Classic.
In 1979, a conversation with J.C. 'Pappy' Hoel sparked the creation of the White Plate Flat Tracker's Association, aimed at uniting former motorcycle racers. Burke contributed to this legacy by writing a chapter in Hoel’s book, Life's Bits and Pieces, reflecting on dirt-track racing and his experiences in Sturgis.
Burke’s racing career came to an abrupt end in 1963 when he transitioned to work as a motorcycle policeman. A spinal injury sustained in 1975 while subduing a suspect posed significant challenges, leading doctors to believe he might never walk again. However, through sheer determination and seven surgeries in seven months, Burke made a remarkable recovery, eventually returning to compete in vintage racing.
Even after retiring from competitive racing, Burke remained deeply involved in the sport by sponsoring young racers and serving as a race announcer and color commentator at various events. His contributions were recognized when he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1996.
Today, Al Burke resides in Richfield, Minnesota, in the same home where he grew up. He remains a beloved figure in the motorcycle community, showcasing his vintage racing bikes at events and enjoying rides on his Ducati Monster. A proud father of three, Burke’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of riders, reminding them that passion, perseverance, and community are the true driving forces behind the love of motorcycling.